Heavier! Faster! Louder!

Heavier! Faster! Louder! The Story of Tyneside Heavy Metal

A six-part audio documentary

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It features new interviews with members of Venom, Raven, Tygers of Pan Tang, Atomkraft, War Machine, Fist, Mythra and many more. These hugely influential Tyneside bands were at the forefront of the New Wave of British Heavy Metal and helped pave the way for the global success of titans like Metallica, Megadeth and Slayer.

The documentary has been produced by Sarah Younas, Digital Producer at Tyne & Wear Archives & Museums, and music writer John Tucker, author of Neat & Tidy: The Story of Neat Records.

All tracks licensed courtesy of BMG Rights Management (UK) Ltd except for 'The Power' which is used with permission from Bernadette Mooney (War Machine).

Episode One – SS Giro (released 27 February 2020)Tyneside's traditional heavy industries are dying. Inspired by the devil's music, kids see guitars and amps as their way out. Contains explicit language, discretion advised.

Music included in this episode: The Power - War MachineBack To The Grind - White SpiritSS Giro - FistBreak The Chain - Raven

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Episode Two – Rock Until You Drop (released 5 March 2020)
As the likes of Iron Maiden and Saxon spearhead the New Wave Of British Heavy Metal, a Tyneside record label unearths new talents. Contains explicit language, discretion advised.

Music included in this episode: The Power - War MachineName, Rank And Serial Number - FistDon't Need Your Money - RavenRock Until You Drop - RavenHard Ride - Raven

Music included in this episode:The Power - War MachineStorm Warning - War MachineYou'll Never Get Me Up (In One Of Those) - FistThe Inquisitor - Raven

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Episode Four – In League With Satan (released 19 March 2020)
There's no-one deadlier than Venom, the cult Newcastle band that pushed the boundaries and spawned a new genre – black metal. Contains explicit language from the start, discretion advised.

Music included in this episode:The Power - War MachineIn Nomine Satanas - VenomManitou - VenomAngel Dust - VenomIn League With Satan - VenomWelcome to Hell - Venom

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Episode Five – At War With Satan (released 26 March 2020)
Tyneside heavy metal makes a big impression across the pond but a moral panic is brewing. Contains explicit language and references to violence, suicide and drugs. Discretion advised.

Music included in this episode: The Power - War MachineLive At The Inferno - RavenDie Hard - VenomFuture Warriors - AtomkraftBlack Metal - VenomAt War With Satan (Preview) - Venom